Finding out you are pregnant can be overwhelming. Often when people feel overwhelmed or anxious they may feel pressured to make a decision before they know all the facts.
If abortion is an option you are considering, let PRC Grand Rapids talk through that option with you. We want you to be confident that you know all the facts before making a decision about your pregnancy.
Abortion Methods
Abortion is the ending of a pregnancy by the removal of an embryo or fetus. There are multiple abortion methods available and which method is used may depend on how far along you are in your pregnancy.
Medication abortion can be used up to 70 days from the first day of your last menstrual period. It is a combination of two different drugs administered at different times to end your pregnancy. The first medication may be administered in a clinic, but the second medication and the cramping and bleeding that empties your uterus usually happens after you leave the clinic.
Surgical abortion procedures are used at 4-24 weeks and occur in a clinic. During these procedures your cervix is dilated and the abortion provider will use different instruments to remove the contents of your uterus. These instruments can include a loop-shaped tool (called a curette) to scrape the uterus, suction to remove contents of the uterus, and/or forceps to pull the fetus out in smaller pieces that will fit through your cervix. Which procedure and which instruments are used depend on how far along you are in your pregnancy.
For more detailed information on abortion, call PRC today to schedule your pre-abortion screening. PRC offers free ultrasounds as part of that appointment to help you determine how far along you are, which can help determine which options are available to you.
The Risks
Now that you’re aware of the different abortion methods, it is important to acknowledge the risks and side effects that come along with an abortion.
A medication abortion can be incomplete at times, which would mean a surgical abortion would still be required to complete the abortion.
Some of the surgical abortion methods, Dilation & Curettage (D&C) and Dilation & Evacuation (D&E) are done without the provider being able to see into your uterus, which increases the risk of perforation (where the abortion tools may accidently push through the wall of your uterus).
The side effects for both medical and surgical abortion include cramping, bleeding, nausea, diarrhea, and pain. Some rare, but very serious, side effects include hemorrhage (heavy bleeding), infection, pre-term birth in later pregnancies and death.
Some women experience emotional or psychological risks after an abortion. Some may feel relief, but others may find themselves facing feelings such as; sadness, anger, guilt, long-term grief, or suicidal thoughts.
Weigh Your Options. You Deserve It.
These risks and side effects may seem intimidating, but it is important to know all the facts before you make a big decision and you are not alone. PRC Grand Rapids is here to offer information about abortion, adoption, and parenting to inform and empower women who are facing an unplanned pregnancy. Call today to make an appointment!